Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)
Have a question? Check out the list below.
What is the SoPh Alumni Association?
Formed in early 2023, The School of Professional Horticulture (SoPH) Alumni Association is an independent, alumni-led initiative, working in close collaboration with departments across the New York Botanical Garden and SoPH’s current administration.
Who can join?
Any official graduate of the School of Professional Horticulture is welcome to join. The New York Botanical Garden has many adult education courses, with various certificates offered. The SOPH program is a two-and-a-half year, intensive program, which includes course study, hands-on rotational training throughout the garden and a culminating six-month internship.
How do I know if I’m an alum?
Generally speaking, nothing else is like the SoPH program. If you are unsure you are a graduate of the program, reach out with your year of graduation. We can confirm with the Education Department at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), that you matriculated through the program.
Does it cost anything to join?
Membership is open to all Alumni with no cost or obligation.
What are the Association’s goals?
2024 has been a busy year for us. We launched a pilot program for mentoring recent graduates in winter 2024. And, in April 2024, we hosted a networking and reunion event at NYBG, kicking off what will be the first of exclusive events for alumni.
Finally, in order to make it easier for alumni to connect with one another, we are launching a directory of SoPH alumni in winter 2024.
How do I join?
Reach out! We’d love to hear from you. If you’re unsure whether your alum, send us a message and we can look into it.
I’m an alumni and an Association member. How can I volunteer?
There are a lot of ways for Association members to get involved, both in-person and remotely! Our projects range from ad-hoc to ongoing and are anything from mentoring, to copyediting, to website administration, to helping with special events. Contact us and let’s talk about what you’re interested in.